Feedback Flow Control of Flow over a Three Dimensional Turret for Directed Energy Applications

Directed energy applications require accurate and efficient transmission of optical energy to an intended target. A three dimensional turret design consisting of a hemispherical top with a flat aperture  has proven to provide a convenient method of pointing and tracking lasers from airborne platforms. However, the turret's three-dimensional blunt design leads to complex separation phenomena which, in turn, leads to distortion in an otherwise planar emerging laser beam. This research proposes to develop an adaptive feedback control system to control the flow field around the turret in order to improve aero-optic performance.